Number Bonds to 5 – Dominoes

Help children develop their understanding of number bonds to 5 with this engaging dominoes maths activity. Children use the dots already shown on each domino to work out how many more are needed to make a total of 5. For each domino, children draw the missing dots on the other side so that there are 5 dots altogether. They can then use their understanding of the two parts to complete the corresponding number sentence. The domino format provides a clear visual representation of number composition and part-part-whole relationships. Children can see how one quantity combines with another to make the whole number 5, helping them develop a secure understanding of number bonds. This resource is ideal for Early Years and KS1 and can be used during whole-class maths sessions, small-group activities, independent learning, interventions or continuous provision. It provides an opportunity for children to connect practical and visual representations with mathematical number sentences. Children can practise: Learning number bonds to 5 Recognising quantities within 5 Finding the missing part needed to make 5 Exploring part-part-whole relationships Counting accurately Completing simple number sentences Developing early addition skills Recognising different ways to make 5 Developing mathematical reasoning and number sense Encourage children to explain their thinking as they work. For example, if a domino has 3 dots on one side, ask “How many more dots do you need to make 5?” Children can then draw 2 dots and complete the number sentence 3 + 2 = 5. For further practical learning, provide real dominoes or counters and ask children to find and make different number bonds to 5. Encourage them to look for patterns and discuss what they notice when the two parts are swapped. This visual and engaging activity supports children to build a strong understanding of number bonds to 5, providing an important foundation for later work with addition, subtraction and number bonds to 10.